Re: [Harp-L] The Vocal 300 by Digitech...options!

[Richard Hunter <turtlehill@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Alec wrote:
> 
> I've been wondering about this for a while. Can you get
> those amp modeling sounds out of the RP-300? Does it have
> tube type distortion as an effect? All the adds I've seen
> are unclear on this point. Could you load one of Richard's
> cool presets for the RP-200 into the RP-300?

Answers as follows:
1) Yes, you get the amp modeling sounds out of the RP300.  The sound
engine is the same; the RP300 gives you more controls for shaping
effects, and a few more parameters for each effect.
2)  "Tube type distortion" is not one of the effects per se, but several
of the amp models provide greater or lesser degrees of modeled tube
distortion.  In other words, the device models the distortion that you
get from an overdriven tube amp.  
3)  The settings for any given sound must be entered by hand, i.e. there
is no computer interface, so you can't "load" them.  That said, the
interface is pretty straightforward, and entering settings for a given
sound isn't difficult or time-consuming.  (It's testing the sound to
make sure you got it exactly right that takes time.)  RP200 presets will
work on the RP300 with very slight mods (because of those few extra
controls).

> Also, Richard mentions the Berringer V-amp2, which I've
> also been eyeing. Has anyone actually tried one with harp
> to compare it to the RP-200?

Tinus has used the VAMP, you might check his website out.
 
> I'll never give up my tube amps, but for small gigs, or
> fill-in gigs with other bands, these things seem like they
> would really come it handy.

Ditto and likewise.  And if you think these things are handy for a
pick-up gig, wait until you see how handy they are when you travel via
air.  You can carry your entire rig to the gig -- on another continent,
if you like -- in a small bag or backpack. Now THAT is better living
through electronics.

Regarding the real amps, in general, no piece of gear that makes a sound
that inspires you is ever obsolete.  I will never sell my Crate VC508. 
But unless the gig is a straight-up Chicago blues session, I'll never
carry the Crate to another gig either.  

Thansk and regards, Richard Hunter
hunterharp.com